Harvest Time and Thanksgiving

We Reap What We Sow: How to Have a Harvest of Thanksgiving

Bible Passage: Galatians 6:7-10

Sermon’s Objective: Galatians 6:7-10 teaches the biblical spiritual law that a people reap what they sow. This should encourage us as believers to live in such a way that we yield the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in verses 22-23. Furthermore, this should encourage us to persevere in doing good, especially when it comes to supporting and loving one another.

Main Point: Your daily actions and choices influence the people around you. We should support and help each other as we walk together in our faith, especially in the times when we are discouraged.

Teaching: The law of sowing and reaping is a profound biblical principle that shapes our daily lives and our relationships. Understanding this law should encourage us to be accountable to one another and actively participate in God’s work here on Earth.

1. Sow the Seeds of Christian Integrity

Galatians 6:7

Explanation: You could begin by discussing the immutable law of sowing and reaping, emphasizing God's justice and truth. This principle reminds us to choose our actions wisely, as each choice impacts our spiritual life. Stress how Christ invites us to sow seeds of faith and integrity, embodying His truth in our daily walk. Confront the misconception that our actions are inconsequential, encouraging reflection on what seeds we are sowing today.

Illustration: In a little neighborhood, a man always lent his tools to anyone who asked. One day, when his own garden needed some extra help, his friends showed up ready to assist him. He chuckled, 'I didn’t even have to ask; I just reaped what I’ve sown!' This story reflects Galatians 6:9 and teaches us how our generosity creates a cycle of kindness that eventually returns to us.

Application: In a challenging work environment where negativity or competition is rampant, it's essential to be the one who sows positivity and encouragement. Make it your goal this week to acknowledge at least one coworker each day for their contributions or efforts. Whether it's through a simple message, a shout-out in a meeting, or a small treat, these acts of kindness will not only uplift others but can also cultivate a more collaborative and supportive workplace culture.

2. Sow Good Seed through the Holy Spirit

Galatians 6:8

Explanation: Perhaps focus on the contrast between sowing to the flesh and to the Spirit. Highlight how investing in worldly desires leads to emptiness, while investing in spiritual growth yields life. Encourage the audience to choose actions that reflect Christ's transformative power in them, nurturing a harvest of spiritual blessings. Consider incorporating personal anecdotes or testimonies about living a Spirit-driven life.

Illustration: A farmer decided to plant a new crop of watermelons. Instead of diligently caring for them, he had fun playing video games all summer. When fall came, he harvested a field full of tiny, shriveled melons. Laughing, he said, 'I guess I’m just reaping what I didn’t sow!' It reminds us in life that the effort we put in will reflect in the results we see, just like the Bible teaches us in Galatians 6:7.

Application: While walking through your community, you may encounter people who seem disengaged or troubled. In these moments, remember that small acts of kindness can reap big rewards. Take the initiative this week to engage with someone in your local park or store—ask how they are doing, listen to their story, and offer a word of hope or a small gesture, such as buying someone a coffee. Your willingness to sow kindness in public spaces can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to do the same.

3. Be Steadfast in Serving Others

Galatians 6:9

Explanation: Maybe encourage perseverance in doing good, even when results aren't immediate. Use Christ’s endurance through suffering as a model for steadfast faith. Offer reassurance that God honors persistence and will bring about a harvest in due season. Emphasize the importance of continual good works as an expression of our faith in Christ’s redemptive mission, motivating believers to press on in service and love.

Illustration: There’s a popular saying, 'You get back what you give out.' A young girl planted kindness by sharing her toys. Years later, she found herself surrounded by caring friends who always supported her. She realized how her simple actions of generosity had blossomed into a heartfelt community around her—just like sowing seeds of good and reaping a fruitful harvest, as Matthew 7:7 reminds us about asking and receiving.

Application: If you're feeling overwhelmed by family responsibilities and find yourself often grumbling, try shifting your focus to gratitude. Each day this week, take a moment to jot down three things you appreciate about your family or your home. Share these with your family during dinner as a way to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness. This practice will sow seeds of joy and appreciation, transforming your outlook and fostering a more loving and supportive home environment.

4. Seize Opportunities to Bless Others

Galatians 6:10

Explanation: You could conclude by emphasizing the call to actively do good to all, especially fellow believers. Use Christ’s example of boundless grace to illustrate how our community of faith should operate. Encourage the congregation to seize opportunities to bless others, knowing that their investment in others reflects Christ’s love and prepares a harvest of unity and thanksgiving within the community.

Illustration: A group of teens organized a community clean-up day. They laughed and worked hard, and to their surprise, local businesses joined in to offer treats. Later, they enjoyed a barbecue, realizing they had made new friendships just by giving back. Their fun experience showed them the joy of sowing good deeds and reaping a powerful community spirit, echoing the truth found in Proverbs 11:25—'A generous person will prosper.'

Application: Amid stressful deadlines and high-pressure projects, it's easy to become self-absorbed or critical. To counteract this, start a weekly gratitude circle with your coworkers. Each week, dedicate a few minutes in your next team meeting for everyone to share something they appreciate about another team member or project. This practice encourages a culture of support and recognition, reminding everyone that by uplifting one another, we all rise and contribute to a more positive work atmosphere.

How this passage points to Christ: Our relationship with Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit will determine what we sow and what we harvest. Christ sows the seeds of the gospel in our hearts, and then we partake in the fruit of the Spirit when we serve others and do good works, which reflects Christ's love in our lives.

Conclusion: The choices you and I make today shape our futures. By sowing the seeds of love through our actions, we bless others and reap a bountiful harvest in that will last for eternity.